The Fun 2015 Fiat 500 Models Get New Automatic Transmission Option

By Jeff Youngs,

Fiat builds several versions of the 500. Buyers can choose between a hardtop coupe and a roll-top convertible, and Fiat offers three levels of underhood firepower in the form of a standard 101-horsepower engine, a more powerful 135-horsepower turbocharged engine, and a 160-horsepower turbocharged engine paired with numerous Abarth-branded performance-oriented upgrades. Until now, though, an automatic transmission has been available only with the standard engine. That changes for the 2015 Fiat 500.

Debuting at the 2014 New York Auto Show, the 2015 Fiat 500 Turbo and 500 Abarth models can be fitted with a new 6-speed automatic transmission in addition to the standard 5-speed manual gearbox, a change that is expected to increase sales of the sportier versions of the 500.

"Adding an optional automatic transmission makes the Abarth and Abarth Cabrio accessible to an entirely new group of customers who want to enjoy the thrilling driving experience of the Fiat 500 Abarth with the convenience of an automatic gearbox," said Jason Stoicevich, Head of Fiat Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC.

Engage the standard Sport mode and the new transmission provides quicker upshifts, rev matching on downshifts, corner gear hold, and revised throttle mapping for a more engaging driving experience. In addition to the new transmission option for the 500 Turbo and 500 Abarth variants, all 2015 Fiat 500 models get a new 7-in. instrument display and minor interior updates.

Fiat says the 2015 500 models will arrive at dealerships in July 2014.